On June 27, Beijing time, the Group E match of the group stage of the European Cup finally came to an end. In this round, Romania and Slovakia drew and Belgium and Ukraine also drew hands. There have been 14 draws so far in this European Cup, and the intensity of the game is impressive, but some fans joked that it has become a "healthy European Cup". Think about it, the contrast between the players on the field doing their best and the fans off the field having no choice but to close their eyes and nap is really interesting.
The thrilling four teams in Group E are tied on points
The match in Group E of this European Championship is really ups and downs, after three rounds, four teams are tied on points, this is the first time in the history of the European Cup! Ukraine, ranked 24th in the world, were the unluckiest team, having been eliminated on goal difference despite picking up four points. As you can imagine, the Ukrainian players looked at Denmark and Slovenia, who qualified with only 3 points, and they really had mixed feelings. After all, every minute and second of the game is full of variables, and who could have predicted the final outcome?
The three families in Group F are happy and one is lost
In contrast, the matches in Group F are a little more clear-cut. Portugal, Turkey and first-time Georgia qualified for the knockout rounds. The Czech Republic, who are considered the second seed in the group, were unexpectedly eliminated. In the three group games, the Czech team always had such an "undercover" player, and it felt that they did not lose to their opponents, but to themselves. As you can imagine, when they get home, they will definitely take a good look at what the problem is.
The top 16 is out, and the super death half has emerged
So far, the round of 16 of the European Championship has been released, including Spain, Germany, Denmark, Portugal, France, Belgium, Romania, Austria, England, Switzerland, Italy, the Netherlands, Turkey, Georgia, Slovakia and Slovenia. The first half of the zone is undoubtedly the super death half, Spain, Germany, Portugal, France, Belgium, these favorites to win the championship gathered together, it is really the feeling of Mars hitting the earth!
The round of 16 showdown, suspense
Next, let's take a look at the matchup in the round of 16. The most notable match was undoubtedly the big match between Belgium and France, which was the fifth time the two sides had met in a major tournament, and France had won all four of the previous meetings. This time, whether De Bruyne, who is no longer young, can lead the team to climb over the French behemoth is really worth looking forward to!
Other matchups in the top half are also full of highlights: Spain vs. Georgia, Germany vs. Denmark, Portugal vs. Slovenia. Although the suspense of these matchups is relatively small, the variables on the field of play are always unpredictable.
The matchups in the second half are equally exciting: Romania against the Netherlands, Austria against Turkey, England against Slovakia, Switzerland against Italy. Every game can become a classic, and the expectations of the fans are high.
Can Belgium break the curse?
When it comes to Belgium vs. France, it's really full of suspense. It is conceivable that De Bruyne, the midfield maestro, will play crucially in this game. After all, the overall strength of the French team is very strong, from Mbappe in the front line, to Kante in the midfield, to Varane in the backline, every position is world-class.
But the Belgian team is not vegetarian either, Lukaku's impact, Hazard's agility, De Bruyne's scheduling, these are their killer features. So, it's hard to predict the outcome of this matchup, but one thing is for sure, it's going to be a great matchup.
Portugal's path to qualification
Look at Portugal again, this time they will play against Slovenia. While Slovenia did well in the group stage, their path to qualification is set to be challenging against a Portugal side with Cristiano Ronaldo. Cristiano Ronaldo, the ageless legend, is still the soul of the Portuguese team. Although he is no longer young, his experience and leadership always make a huge difference when it matters most. It is conceivable that in a key battle such as the knockout round, every shot and every assist of Ronaldo will affect the hearts of the audience.
A new chapter for the German team
Germany will play Denmark in the knockout rounds. As the hosts, it is only natural that the German team will want to go further with the help of their home fans. In recent years, the German team has undergone a renewal of the squad, and they have shown good fighting power in this European Championship. The rise of young players combined with experienced veterans makes this German squad both dynamic and experienced. Against Denmark, Germany will need to perform at their best at both ends of the pitch, as their resilience and teamwork should not be underestimated.
The road to revival in the Netherlands
Romania and the Netherlands in the bottom half will also be interesting. After several years of slumps, the Dutch team finally returned to glory at this European Championship. Virgil van Dijk's defence is rock-solid, with the rise of new stars such as Depay and Frenkie de Jong giving the squad a sense of vigour. If the Dutch can maintain their group stage momentum in the knockout rounds, they will be a tough opponent for any opponent.
A young storm in England
England will take on Slovakia. In recent years, England have seen the emergence of a large number of talented young players, with the likes of Raheem Sterling, Harry Kane and Phil Foden expected to perform. England fans are hoping that the 'Three Lions' will break the curse of the 'uncrowned kings' and lift the European Championship trophy. Against Slovakia, England will need to give it their all to avoid capsizing in the gutter.
Italy's steady play
Switzerland vs. Italy, this match is also in the spotlight. The Italian team is known for their solid defence and efficient attack, and they have been quite consistent in this tournament. Head coach Roberto Mancini put his tactics right, and the team showed a very high standard in the transition between attack and defence. Although the Swiss team is strong, it will be difficult to beat Italy.
Austria vs. Turkey
Austria vs. Turkey, this match may not seem so remarkable, but it is actually full of highlights. Austria had a remarkable performance in the group stage and their overall tactical execution was excellent. Turkey, on the other hand, are known for their tenacity, showing their strong psychological quality with a stunner in their final group game. It is conceivable that the battle between the two teams will be a fierce battle.
epilogue
Overall, the round of 16 matchups of this European Championship are full of suspense and expectations in every game. Whoever lifts the trophy in the end, every moment of the game will be an unforgettable memory for the fans. So, are you ready? Let's witness these wonderful matchups together, and witness the passion and glory brought by football! Watching these top teams compete, one can't help but sigh that football is really one of the most beautiful sports in the world. I hope that every fan can find their own touch and happiness in this European Cup.